Undav the hero as Germany comes from behind to beat Ivory Coast 2-1, advances to World Cup knockout stage

Substitute Denis Undav emerged as Germany's hero, scoring twice in the second half to secure a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Ivory Coast in their 2026 World Cup Group E match. This crucial win propelled the European giants into the knockout stage of the tournament.

Germany, managed by Julian Nagelsmann, secured their place in the next round after accumulating six points from their opening two games. Their performance followed a resounding 7-1 win over Curacao in their first group fixture. However, Germany initially trailed in the match when Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie scored in the 30th minute, capitalizing on a rebound against veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Despite falling behind, Germany intensified their attack after halftime, with creative players like Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz orchestrating moves. Yet, the Ivory Coast defense held firm for an extended period. Nagelsmann's tactical substitutions eventually paid off when Undav, brought on as a replacement, equalized in the 68th minute with a precise finish from a well-placed cross. This goal injected new energy into the German side, who continued to push for a winning goal.

As the match neared its conclusion, Undav struck again in injury time, completing the comeback with a swift counter-attack that sent German fans into jubilation. The defeat dashed Ivory Coast's hopes of advancing alongside Germany, leaving them needing a positive outcome in their final group game against Curacao to revive their chances of progressing. Germany will conclude their group stage campaign against Ecuador.